On 2 May 2027 I'm running 50 kilometres — 13 and a bit laps of Centennial Park's Grand Drive — to mark 50 years on the planet. Come do a lap, a loop, or just show up for cake.
Centennial Park's Grand Drive loop runs just under 3.8km — so 50km works out to thirteen laps, and a bit more. I'll be out there from early morning until it's done.
This is a come-and-go kind of day. Jump in for one lap or several, whatever suits — the only fixed point is cake at the finish.
Stroll a lap (or two) of Grand Drive with me whenever suits — no pace pressure, just company.
Lace up and knock out a lap or a few alongside me — perfect if 50km sounds like a lot but you want in on the miles.
Grand Drive is shared with cyclists — bring the bike and circle the park for as long as you like.
Turn up at the finish, cheer me over the line, and help eat the cake. Honestly the best job of the day.
Grand Drive circles the heart of Centennial Park — the same road loop used for the marathon course at the Sydney 2000 Olympics. Mostly flat, tree-lined, and shared by runners, walkers, cyclists, and the odd horse on the bridle track.
Every lap begins and ends on Grand Drive, right across from The Greenhouse café — easiest spot to find us, grab a coffee, or wait for cake.
The park's biggest pond — birdlife, palms, and a bit of shade.
Open lawns and sweeping views — a good stretch to spot a friendly face cheering.
Back onto the main loop for the run home to Paddington Gates.
Once lap 13 (and a bit) is done, we're staying right there on Grand Drive — opposite The Greenhouse — for cake and a proper celebration. Bring a picnic rug, bring an appetite, and help me toast fifty years and fifty kilometres in one go.